Canadian Journal of Anesthesia, Vol 17, 166-171, Copyright © 1970 by Canadian Anesthesiologists' Society

A Study of Diazepam (Valium®) for Induction of Anaesthesia

¹ Department of Anaesthesia, University of Saskatchewan, and University Hospital, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Different dose ranges of diazepam have been studied in women as to their suitability or otherwise for the purpose of induction of general anaesthesia, and they have been compared with thiopental under standardized conditions. On the basis of our findings it would appear that diazepam is indeed a satisfactory induction agent and because of the minimal effects which it exerts on circulation might be recommended in patients in whom it is advisable to avoid the circulatory depression and tachycardia which so often follows the injection of thiopental, or in those who in the past have demonstrated sensitivity to or intolerance of barbiturates. The state produced by diazepam cannot be compared with thiopental narcosis in that it comes on somewhat more gradually and induces a state of quiescence, unresponsiveness, and amnesia in which the subsequent inhalation agents are accepted readily. Indeed this state of stupor is frequently preceded by a feeling of elation, and general well-being, and by slurring of speech and loquaciousness; these are not seen with thiopental. The only major complication attributable to diazepam itself was the high incidence of burning on injection and of venous thrombosis which followed injection of the drug into the smaller peripheral veins of the upper extremity. However, this complication can be prevented entirely by selecting larger veins such as those in the antecubital fossa.

Note:

Presented at the Annual Meeting of the Canadian Anaesthetists' Society, Toronto, June 18, 1969.